Ben Barres was a trailblazing transgender neurobiologist who promoted equity & diversity.
His pioneering research on glial cells changed science & he became the 1st #trans person admitted into the National Academies of Science.
Barres was also a strong advocate for women, early career scientists & the #LGBTQ+ community at a time when few people openly discussed gender identity.
I saw him speak at an SfN keynote, and among the things he talked about were the contrasts in his experiences as a scientist on both sides of transition. Amazing scientist and person, much missed.
From Nature's obituary: “I lived life on my terms: I wanted to switch genders, and I did. I wanted to be a scientist, and I was. I wanted to study glia, and I did that too. I stood up for what I believed in and I like to think I made an impact, or at least opened the door for the impact to occur. I have zero regrets and I’m ready to die. I’ve truly had a great life.” Truly an inspiration.
Lilly Hunter
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